S3 buying advice

[kevin]

Hi everyone, I'm new to the forum and after some S3 advice. My wife is giving up her 2001 Scooby WRX (please don't hiss), and after some deliberation she's decided on an S3 as a replacement. We've been for a test drive in a 2001 model in dark blue with black recaro's and she's very impressed with interior and package as a whole. As for the drive and handling it seemed very competent and smoother than the scoob.

The advice I'm after is along these lines; when was the headlight/front end facelift carried out - was there a package of changes including engine mods - has anyone any opinions on pre/post mod differences?

Our budget could be up as far as 18k for the right car but how important is Audi main dealer history versus 'specialist' history? We're looking at a maximum mileage of 50k and not fussed about a private or trade deal but again are there any warning flags to look for in terms of Audi or S3 specific problems - I've heard Audi coil packs are a weak item and subsequently an emotive issue - are these warranty items and should we be expecting a warranty with the car?

Oh, while I remember, Sound Systems. How do I easily identify the differences between Bose Symphony, Concert and any other stock systems and just how good is the Bose?

Lastly, one of the cars I've enquired about is an EU (British Forces purchase) import without a warranty - would there be a complete raft of differences and do Audi dealers treat these with a long barge pole?

Thanks for reading this, if I'm just a numpty and all the wisdom I seek is an article somewhere, please point me in the right direction. And if you have a Merlin Purple S3 with Black Leather and all the toys, is it for sal?

Cheers, Kevin.

[YorkAudi]

Kevin,

In regards to the service history question, it is of key importance that an S3 comes with a FASH as this assures you of the history and mileage of the car. With reference to the sound system, you can identify the BOSE system with the stickers on the speaker grill and with the amplifier that is in the boot area.

Warranty is a big grey area as some audi centres will happily service a car that has been imported, where as some would avoid it at all costs.

I know of 2 S3's that are Audi approved, one in metallic silver and one in Mineral Grey, both with full Audi service history. If you want any more info, please reply back to this message.

Regards,

Andy